Although
Christchurch is
New Zealand's second-largest city and the largest on the
South Island, it has a population of just under half a million. In September 2010, a severe earthquake measuring 7.1 on the
Richter scale struck, destroying numerous buildings. About six months later, another earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale destroyed a significant part of the city center, causing important historic buildings to collapse, among other things. This earthquake claimed the lives of 185 people. In February 2016, there was another earthquake measuring 5.7 on the Richter scale, but it caused only minor damage.
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| Christchurch, New Zealand |
Due to the large number of destroyed buildings, these were replaced with new ones, which is why the city appears very modern. Old historic buildings that are to be preserved are still supported by steel beams and are being restored. Before 1830, the area was inhabited exclusively by Māori. The first settlers arrived around 1830. However, the majority of the European population did not settle in this area until December 1850. Supplying the settlement was very difficult, as there is a chain of hills between the safe harbor of Lyttelton, then known as Port Cooper, and Christchurch, and the path leading over it was very steep. Nevertheless, Christchurch was granted city rights on July 31, 1856, and is considered the oldest city in New Zealand. The city has numerous parks and green spaces, which is why it is also called the Garden City.
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| Modern cityscape Christchurch, New Zealand |
To get an initial overview of the city, we use the historic tram, which can be used with a day ticket as a “hop on, hop off” service. The history of the tram dates back to 1880, reaching its greatest extent in 1922 with 86 kilometers. Initially horse-drawn, the tram was later powered by steam and finally by electricity. After World War II, however, the tram became increasingly uneconomical, so it was completely discontinued in the mid-1950s.
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| Tram in Christchurch, New Zealand |
Initial attempts to revive the tram failed until a tourist concept was agreed upon and the tram was put into operation in the city center on a 2.5-kilometer circular route with 18 stops. This concept has proven successful to this day and was only interrupted by the earthquake from 2011 to 2014. All the wagons are historical, which is in stark contrast to the modern appearance of the city. During the ride, the drivers talk about the history of the city and its buildings. You can hop on and off to explore the city center.
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Riverside Market Christchurch, New Zealand |
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| Bad weather program. One of the many shopping centers in Christchurch |
Another attraction is Hagley Park, located in the center of the city. The park covers an area of around 200 hectares and is home to a golf course as well as polo and cricket fields. It is larger than London's famous Hyde Park, which covers only 140 hectares. The botanical garden on the east side of the park is surrounded by the Avon River. South of the botanical garden, on the other side of the Avon River and nestled in Hagley Park, is the city hospital.
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| Taking the chairlift through Adventure Park Christchurch, New Zealand |
You can enjoy a wonderful view of the city if you head to the aforementioned chain of hills between Lyttelton and Christchurch. There are several ways to get there. You can take the gondola at Bridle Path, which ends above Lyttelton Harbor, or you can take the chairlift at Christchurch Adventure Park. We decide on the chairlift. The adventure park is mostly used by downhill riders. Numerous routes, from beginner to advanced, lead down into the valley. In addition to mountain bikers, you can also take a zip line down into the valley. You hang in a harness and let yourself drop down into the valley via rollers that are attached to the rope. The classic method is to hike down into the valley, and we also encountered many people on this route who had walked instead of taking the chairlift.
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| Ridge Road above Christchurch, New Zealand |
A third option is to drive over Dyers Pass. There is a café at the top of the pass, and a road branches off that runs along the ridge of the hill chain. From up here, there are various vantage points offering great views of Christchurch and the fjord where Lyttelton Harbor is located. We drive over the pass and along the coast to Diamond Harbor. The small village is located directly opposite Lyttelton Harbor. On the way back, we drive up Gebbies Pass and turn off onto the ridge road mentioned above. The road is spectacular, narrow, and winding. Not really suitable for larger vehicles. We like Christchurch so much that we have decided to stay a little longer. We will report on everything we experience over the next week here. So don't forget to follow us on social media. Until then, fair winds and keep a stiff upper lip.
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